Senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar has confirmed that the tripartite Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance in Maharashtra will remain intact. Addressing reporters in Baramati in Pune district, Pawar dismissed rumors about his absence from a press conference held in Mumbai on Friday where NCP chief Sharad Pawar announced his decision to withdraw his resignation.
“MVA belonged to us earlier. It was, is, and will remain intact in the future as well. Necessary efforts are being taken to strengthen the alliance,” Pawar said when asked if Sharad Pawar’s decision to not step down has boosted enthusiasm in the MVA.
The MVA alliance, which comprises the NCP, Shiv Sena, and Congress, has faced several challenges since coming to power in Maharashtra in 2019. The alliance was formed after the Shiv Sena broke ties with its long-time ally, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and joined hands with the NCP and Congress to form a government in the state.
In recent months, there have been reports of friction between the Shiv Sena and Congress, with some leaders from both parties expressing dissatisfaction with the functioning of the alliance. However, the NCP has maintained that the alliance is strong and will continue.
The statement by Ajit Pawar comes amid speculation that the BJP may be attempting to lure some NCP leaders to its fold in an attempt to destabilize the MVA government. Several NCP leaders, including former deputy chief minister Chhagan Bhujbal, have dismissed these rumors and reaffirmed their commitment to the MVA alliance.
The MVA government in Maharashtra has faced several challenges in recent months, including criticism over its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and allegations of corruption in some government departments. However, the alliance partners have maintained that they are committed to working together and addressing these challenges.
The confirmation by Ajit Pawar that the MVA alliance will remain intact is likely to boost the morale of the alliance partners and send a message to their detractors. The NCP leader’s statement also indicates that efforts are being made to address any differences within the alliance and strengthen it further.
